U.S. Reps. Johnson, Kamlager-Dove reintroduce resolution to support second International Decade for People of African Descent

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) and Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) today reintroduced a resolution reaffirming the United States’ commitment to advancing racial justice, addressing systemic inequities, and promoting the rights and dignity of people of African descent globally.  

The resolution calls for a second United Nations-designated International Decade for People of African Descent (2025 – 2034) and calls for national and international actions to combat racism and foster inclusion.

“The first International Decade for People of African Descent laid important groundwork, but pervasive systemic inequities continue to challenge communities across the worldwide African diaspora,” said Congressman Johnson. “This resolution recognizes the urgent need to strengthen our efforts, both domestically and globally, to dismantle barriers and create opportunities that promote justice and equality.”

“Over 200 million people of African descent reside in the Americas alone, and our unique contributions have enriched societies across the globe,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “The UN’s ‘International Decade for People of African Descent’ has advanced global efforts to combat racism, racial discrimination, and xenophobia, and I am proud to co-lead this resolution with Rep. Johnson calling for a continuation of this work into a second decade.”

People of African descent face persistent disparities in wealth, health, education, housing, and criminal justice systems. In the United States, Black families have a median wealth of $24,100, compared to $189,100 for white families, and African Americans represent 38% of the incarcerated population despite comprising only 13% of the general population. The resolution calls for comprehensive strategies to address these inequities and foster greater inclusion and respect for diversity. 

Key elements of the resolution include: 

• Pushes for a second international Decade for People of African Descent as an opportunity to combat systemic racism and advance equality worldwide. 
• Supports U.S. engagement with international initiatives, such as the United States-Colombia Racial Action Plan and the Brazil-U.S. Joint Action Plan
• Urges targeted support for marginalized groups within Afro-descendant communities, including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and persons with disabilities.

The resolution also highlights global challenges faced by Afro-descendant populations, including poverty, xenophobia, and exclusion, particularly in Latin America, Europe, and the Caribbean. 

“The United States must lead by example in promoting racial equity and justice,” continued Congressman Johnson. “This resolution is a critical step in reaffirming our commitment to these values and ensuring that people of African descent worldwide are afforded the dignity and opportunities they deserve.” 

About the International Decade for People of African Descent:

The United Nations designated 2015 – 2024 as the first International Decade for People of African Descent to recognize their contributions to societies worldwide and to advance policies that address systemic injustices. This resolution calls for a second designation to continue these efforts.  

For more, contact Renaldine Lafleche in Congressman Johnson’s office atRenaldine.Lafleche@mail.house.gov.